The Carolina Panthers are looking to end the 2019 NFL season in the win column versus the New Orleans Saints. Unfortunately, it seems they will be shorthanded on both sides of the ball. According to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter, wide receiver DJ Moore and linebacker Shaq Thompson have both been ruled out for Week 17:

Panthers’ WR DJ Moore and LB Shaq Thompson both ruled out for Sunday’s game vs. the Saints.

The move to sit them out is certainly understandable considering Carolina is not playing for much at this point in the season. As a result, they are opting to take a cautious approach with their two young, key players heading into the offseason.

Moore suffered a concussion during the 38-6 loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Week 16. As a result, he is set to miss his first career game to end his second season. Fortunately, the Panthers can take solace in the fact that their former first-round pick has made some significant strides as a No. 1 option in the passing game and will finish the year with 87 receptions for 1,175 yards and four touchdowns.

Meanwhile, Thompson has been unable to practice all week due to a foot injury. It was also revealed that he underwent a shoulder procedure as well so it appears the combination of injuries was enough to spur Carolina to keep him out. After all, they will need to do what they can to protect the heavy investment they made after signing him to a four-year, $54.2 million contract extension a few weeks ago.